25
of a country distracted by civià war each claim to manage
telegraph office in Hong Konghy officials under them.
I suggest that as a face saving device I be authorized
to inform Chen that he will be recognized in lieu of the
present manager upon the distinct understanding that the
Eastern Extension Telegraph Company as agents at Hong Kong
for Chinese Ministry of Communications are handed over the
control of the Hong Kong Office immediately he assumes his
duties. I further recommend that I be authorized to inform
him that if this proposal is rejected this Government will
close down the telegraph office in Hong Kong pending the
possibility of negotiating satisfactory working agreement for
land line with the Canton authorities.
Addressed to Secretary of State for the Colonies
590
repeated to Peking No. 59/Canton.